How far can I drive when my petrol warning light comes on in my car?

Many motorists have carried on regardless after seeing their fuel warning light ping up on a trip.

Indeed some view the little red reminder as challenge rather than a warning, engaging in a little “fuel light bingo” to try and get home and have their other half refuel.

But sometimes luck and petrol run out which can cause massive road disruption as the motor coughs and splutters to a halt on the road.

So when the light comes on, exactly how much fuel have you got left and is it enough to get you to the next petrol station?

There are a number of variables which have to be accounted for including the type of car, the size of the fuel tank, the road you’re driving on and your speed.

Many believe that on average a car can go for around another 40 to 50 miles after the warning light flickers into life.

But the range on the gauge is normally based on the average miles already driven – so what it shows may not be accurate for your current driving conditions.

According to insurance company LV, who conducted a survey of the ten most popular cars in 2015, a Vauxhall Astra would only be able to go another 26 miles before conking out and Corsa would expire in just 29 miles.

A Ford Fiesta, would get another 37 miles and a Ford Focus 40 miles.

A VW Golf would roll on for a further 42 miles with a VW Polo barrelling along for another 39 miles.